Does your face swell a lot after microneedling and affect scar improvement?

Question

I just had my second microneedling treatment, and I have a concern. My skin texture looked AMAZING the day after my first treatment, but my indented scarring basically returned after a week. This was kind of a bummer as I was super excited by my immediate results. I would say that the appearance of my scars improved by about 60-70% only to revert back to only a little bit better than it was pre-treatment. Is this because of swelling?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

These can be improved with a combination of surgery and/or lasers and microneedling/prp. Below is a more detailed reference list of the treatments available. I recommend getting a formal evaluation with a scarring expert to determine which is best for your specific case. Best, Dr. Emer 1. vascular lasers (yellow laser, vbeam, excel v)2. fractional lasers (fraxel, erbium, co2)3. microneedling/PRP4. silicone based scar gels with growth factors5. excision/ revision surgerysee an expert.

Narin (Joe) Apisarnthanarax, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question!To improve acne scars a series of microneedling is recommended for best results. The improvement you initially saw was likely related to the initial swelling of the skin that occurs immediately after the treatment. True and long-standing improvement of the scars occurs with collagen renewal, and this is a gradual process.  In fact, the full results of your treatments are not realized until 3-6 months afterwards. Best of luck!

Justin Harper, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi pepperpups,The initial effects you saw may indeed be due to swelling. However, microneedling has delayed effects because it takes time for skin to heal and grow new collagen. Superficial results like the "glow" can be seen in about a week but it will take longer and probably take more sessions to see sustained improvement.All the best, Justin Harper, M.D.

Does your face swell a lot after microneedling and affect scar improvement?

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Does your face swell a lot after microneedling and affect scar improvement?

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